A DISPUTE between villagers and oil giant Shell has resulted in a complaint to the Environment Agency.

Thornton-le-Moors residents say they have turned to the EA for help as they are disappointed with the way Shell has dealt with problems concerning the neighbouring Stanlow plant.

They claim 'fall outs' have resulted in deposits being left on their cars on a number of occasions, sometimes resulting in damage to the vehicles.

Resident Graham Worthington said: 'I have just got my car back - from a distance it looks OK but when you touch it, it feels very rough.

'When they take the car away, they don't give us a replacement. I am self-employed and it means I can't go anywhere.'

Graham's sister-in-law and fellow resident Sandy Platt said: 'What you see first of all is a covering of fine white ash on the surfaces of the car.

'I was told by a Shell representative that it becomes heavy as it falls through the air and absorbs moisture.

'Once in contact with water it forms a film on the car which eventually has to be polished out.

'Graham and I were told by a Shell representative, who came out for the last incident, that it was sulphur ash and that when it reacted with water or moisture in the air, it became acidic and this is what is damaging the paint.'

A Shell spokesman said the material was harmless catalyst dust.

Another resident, Claire Jake-man, confirmed she had reported the mater to the Environment Agency after suffering what she termed 'continuous problems' with Shell over 20 years.

'I haven't complained to Shell this time because I don't get anywhere with them and it is frustrating. My car is disgusting as is my Land Rover and caravan.

'I have taken the matter to the Environment Agency and they are looking into the matter.

'Twice this year there has been obvious damage to the car and it does tend to happen four to six times a year.'

A spokeswomman for the Environment Agency confirmed they had been contacted about the matter. She said: 'It has been reported to the inspector of the plant and he is looking into it.'

Firm dispels paint complaint > > >

Firm dispels paint complaint

A STATEMENT issued this week from Shell spokesman Edward Brady said: 'On June 16 one of our plants tripped, causing us to emit a small amount of catalyst dust to atmosphere.

'This material is sand-like and it is inert - it does not damage car paintwork and only requires to be washed off.

'We take all complaints seriously and we are liaising closely with the resident to try and resolve the issue as soon as possible.

'We have only just started to have the cars valeted. I hope to have it sorted it out within the next two weeks. We want to help them resolve the situation.'

He added: 'We have had isolated incidents in the past and have dealt with them sympathetically. If residents feel they have a particular grievance, they should contact us and give us a chance to help them.'